Val Chmerkovskiy suspended from Dancing With the Stars

Professional dancer Val Chmerkovskiy has been issued a one-week suspension from Dancing With the Stars by BBC Studios. The disciplinary action follows a controversial TikTok post in which Chmerkovskiy referenced the 2022 Oscars incident involving Will Smith. The post, which stated, “You almost saw Fresh Prince enter the ballroom last night,” was made in response to judge Carrie Ann Inaba’s critique of a performance by Chmerkovskiy’s wife, fellow professional Jenna Johnson.

In a statement, BBC Studios emphasized that “the well-being of everyone who works on Dancing with the Stars is non-negotiable,” noting that the post did not reflect the standards expected of those connected to the show. Chmerkovskiy issued a public apology, stating he made a “poor decision” by using a meme that could imply violence and expressed regret for involving Inaba in the controversy.

During his absence, Alan Bersten stepped in to partner with Jenna Dewan for the show’s Dedication Night. The episode also featured a tribute by Tatyana Ali and Alfonso Ribeiro to the late James Avery. Chmerkovskiy is expected to return to the competition for the upcoming Horror Movie-themed episode.